Kent Barnard

Ever hear the saying there are two seasons in Minnesota? “Yes,” Marsha Johnston of Minneapolis said. “There’s winter and there’s road construction.” But over the past few decades there have been more road, ramp and bridge closures throughout the winter.

With the first decent snowfall of the season expected to start Tuesday night, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has been busy getting its equipment ready. Officials said they are ready for anything Mother Nature throws at us, but Minnesota residents and especially commuters are encouraged to get their winter kits ready if they haven’t already.

The Stillwater Lift Bridge has been closed after a cable snapped Sunday evening, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. MnDOT spokesman Kent Barnard says the cable snapped at around 8 p.m. Now, the bridge is in down position and closed to traffic from boats 6-feet tall or higher. Once a replacement cable arrives, it will take a week to install, weather permitting.